A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic test results of a female client who is about to undergo knee arthroplasty. Which of the following data collection findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL
WBC count 20,000/mm3
Potassium 3.8 mEq/L
Hematocrit 40%
The Correct Answer is B
a. Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL: This creatinine level is within the normal range and is not an immediate priority for knee arthroplasty.
b. WBC count 20,000/mm3: An elevated white blood cell count suggests the presence of
infection or inflammation. In the context of knee arthroplasty, infection is a significant concern and requires immediate attention to prevent complications.
c. Potassium 3.8 mEq/L: This potassium level is within the normal range and is not an immediate priority for knee arthroplasty.
d. Hematocrit 40%: This hematocrit level is within the normal range and is not an immediate priority for knee arthroplasty. The elevated WBC count takes precedence as it suggests a
potential infectious process.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. Prothrombin time (PT): Warfarin affects the extrinsic pathway of the coagulation cascade, and PT is the primary diagnostic test used to monitor the therapeutic effect of warfarin. It measures
the time it takes for blood to clot.
b. Platelet count: Platelet count assesses the number of platelets in the blood and is not specifically used to monitor the effect of warfarin.
c. White blood cell count (WBC): WBC count assesses the number of white blood cells and is not specifically used to monitor the effect of warfarin.
d. Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT): While aPTT is a valuable test for monitoring the therapeutic effect of heparin, it is not the primary test for warfarin. Warfarin primarily affects the extrinsic pathway, and PT is more appropriate for monitoring its effects.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. Serum potassium: Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to potassium loss, potentially causing hypokalemia. Monitoring potassium levels is crucial to prevent complications such as cardiac arrhythmias.
b. Serum amylase: This is not directly related to furosemide therapy. Amylase is an enzyme associated with pancreatic and salivary function.
c. Serum triglyceride: Furosemide does not typically have a direct impact on serum triglyceride levels.
d. Serum cholesterol: Furosemide does not typically have a direct impact on serum cholesterol levels.
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